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My Thirty-First Year
"Superb characterizations round out this captivating production." — Library Journal , Best Audiobooks of 2022
On her 30th birthday, Yale-educated Zoe Greene was supposed to be married to her high-school sweetheart, pregnant with their first baby, and practicing law in Chicago. Instead, she’s planning an abortion and filing for divorce. Zoe wants to understand why her plans failed—and to move on, have sex, and date while there’s still time. As she navigates dysfunctional penises, a paucity of grammatically sound online dating profiles, and her paralyzing fear of aging alone, she also grapples with the pressure women feel to put others first. Ultimately, Zoe’s family, friends, incomparable therapist, and diary of never-to-be-sent letters to her first loves, the rock band U2, help her learn to let go—of society’s constructs of female happiness, and of her own.
On her 30th birthday, Yale-educated Zoe Greene was supposed to be married to her high-school sweetheart, pregnant with their first baby, and practicing law in Chicago. Instead, she’s planning an abortion and filing for divorce. Zoe wants to understand why her plans failed—and to move on, have sex, and date while there’s still time. As she navigates dysfunctional penises, a paucity of grammatically sound online dating profiles, and her paralyzing fear of aging alone, she also grapples with the pressure women feel to put others first. Ultimately, Zoe’s family, friends, incomparable therapist, and diary of never-to-be-sent letters to her first loves, the rock band U2, help her learn to let go—of society’s constructs of female happiness, and of her own.
416 pages, Paperback
Published August 2, 2022
11 people are currently reading
3018 people want to read
About the author
Emily Wolf
17 books26 followersEmily is an ardent feminist, U2 fan, native Chicagoan, and graduate of Harvard Law School. She now lives in Houston, TX with her family of humans and dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 20, 2022
I received a copy of 'My Thirty-First Year (and Other Calamities) from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I could not put this down! I loved this so much.
Highly relatable (some of this could have been taken from my diary), funny, charming, nostalgic and warm. Great cast of characters, well-observed and well written. Easy to picture as a Netflix series or film one day.
I would 100% read more from this author.
I could not put this down! I loved this so much.
Highly relatable (some of this could have been taken from my diary), funny, charming, nostalgic and warm. Great cast of characters, well-observed and well written. Easy to picture as a Netflix series or film one day.
I would 100% read more from this author.
December 19, 2023
I loved this book so much I immediately bought a copy for my daughter for her 30th birthday. Every woman turning 30 will laugh, cry and feel more self-compassion after reading this novel, which I cannot recommend highly enough. You don't even really have to be turning 30; I was 56 when I read it and I still thoroughly enjoyed every page.
The main character is a smart, sassy survivor, and from the opening scene, in which she is getting a lecture about the state of her underwear from her mom while getting an abortion, you know you are in skilled authorial hands.
Even though one in four women has an abortion, few novels ever bring up this unmentionable subject, let alone treat it with cheeky irreverence and show a character having a happy ending despite one. The abortion is still not treated lightly; it's a terrible wrenching decision the character makes and things happen in the novel that could make her maudlin over the decision, but she responds like an adult with a full life that includes more than her reproductive choices. Just all around a delightful, refreshing way to handle a normal part of all women's lives.
Beyond that, the character's concerns over her career, her friendships, and her love life all ring true, and the book offers no magical outcomes, yet one still has the sense that the character will definitely get to live happily ever after just because she's awesome, and who doesn't need that life lesson? I love this book, and you and your daughters will, too.
I listened to an advanced audio version of this novel generously provided to me by Netgalley and Hachette Audio and fantastically well narrated by Cady Zuckerman, who had just the right droll tone for the author's humor. I bought my daughter the hard copy version because she wanted a book to curl up with, and I'm sure it will be as great read in the head as it was read by a narrator, but I'm happy to have heard it first.
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The main character is a smart, sassy survivor, and from the opening scene, in which she is getting a lecture about the state of her underwear from her mom while getting an abortion, you know you are in skilled authorial hands.
Even though one in four women has an abortion, few novels ever bring up this unmentionable subject, let alone treat it with cheeky irreverence and show a character having a happy ending despite one. The abortion is still not treated lightly; it's a terrible wrenching decision the character makes and things happen in the novel that could make her maudlin over the decision, but she responds like an adult with a full life that includes more than her reproductive choices. Just all around a delightful, refreshing way to handle a normal part of all women's lives.
Beyond that, the character's concerns over her career, her friendships, and her love life all ring true, and the book offers no magical outcomes, yet one still has the sense that the character will definitely get to live happily ever after just because she's awesome, and who doesn't need that life lesson? I love this book, and you and your daughters will, too.
I listened to an advanced audio version of this novel generously provided to me by Netgalley and Hachette Audio and fantastically well narrated by Cady Zuckerman, who had just the right droll tone for the author's humor. I bought my daughter the hard copy version because she wanted a book to curl up with, and I'm sure it will be as great read in the head as it was read by a narrator, but I'm happy to have heard it first.
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August 9, 2022
Thank you so much to @shewritespress and @dreamscapemedia for the advance reading and listening copies of My Thirty-First Year (And Other Calamities) by Emily Wolf. This book came out on August 2, 2022 - AVAILABLE NOW!
At thirty years old Zoe Greene expected to be married and expecting a baby, not planning a divorce and preparing for an abortion, but life doesn't always happen the way you expect it will. The year following these events we see Zoe learn to date and work through all the issues that existed in her marriage.
I was first drawn to this book because of the title, me and all my friends are in our thirty first year and this sounded like a hilarious read that would probably have some parallels to some of our lives. What I didn't realize, was that instead of being set in the present, its set in 2007-2008, when we were not even close to 30 - but this didn't end up impacting my enjoyment of the book.
What I was not expecting, and absolutely loved, was the Jewish rep filling this book. There was some every day, common references - eating peperoni pizza, attending temple with her bubbie. I particularly appreciated the details around Zoe's visit to the mikvah and the inclusion of the prayers (in Hebrew) that are traditionally said during this experience.
Zoe goes through some very real, difficult times and I found she dealt with them in a very real way. Often with some dark humor and alcohol.
The narration by Cady Zuckerman was absolutely amazing. She really brought the story to life, and sounded exactly how I imagine Zoe would. I also appreciate the text messages that were included throughout the book.
I highly recommend more readers pick this one up!
At thirty years old Zoe Greene expected to be married and expecting a baby, not planning a divorce and preparing for an abortion, but life doesn't always happen the way you expect it will. The year following these events we see Zoe learn to date and work through all the issues that existed in her marriage.
I was first drawn to this book because of the title, me and all my friends are in our thirty first year and this sounded like a hilarious read that would probably have some parallels to some of our lives. What I didn't realize, was that instead of being set in the present, its set in 2007-2008, when we were not even close to 30 - but this didn't end up impacting my enjoyment of the book.
What I was not expecting, and absolutely loved, was the Jewish rep filling this book. There was some every day, common references - eating peperoni pizza, attending temple with her bubbie. I particularly appreciated the details around Zoe's visit to the mikvah and the inclusion of the prayers (in Hebrew) that are traditionally said during this experience.
Zoe goes through some very real, difficult times and I found she dealt with them in a very real way. Often with some dark humor and alcohol.
The narration by Cady Zuckerman was absolutely amazing. She really brought the story to life, and sounded exactly how I imagine Zoe would. I also appreciate the text messages that were included throughout the book.
I highly recommend more readers pick this one up!
August 24, 2022
Can I just say that Zoe is a very relatable character. I feel that the majority of us can say that we have all been there. You think you find your Prince Charming, get married, and dream of a future with the white picked fence and 2.5 kids for it light up in flames. Rob is the worst and a coward with absolutely no backbone. He did Zoe a favor in the end.
This book does open up unconventionally right after the character is getting an abortion with her husband's baby. That was a little bit unsettling to me and I wish it would have started out with the proposal and getting married leading up to the abortion not starting with that and then going back in time but that is just me. I understand why she felt that was the best decision for her and I am so happy that she had the support system that she did. I did enjoy the realness and rawness with this storyline.
Now to the lighthearted portion of the book is when Zoe decides that its time to start dating again and signs up on an online dating app. (Been there done that) This is SO relatable. I feel like every date she went on was my dating life after my divorce. This made is funnier too because I was like yep dated that guy, and that one, and that one. Dating in your 30's is HARD and the author nailed it.
I liked the authors choice of ending for Zoe. It is unconventional and felt appropriate in that moment of her life.. This is not a book about romance but more of a self discovery and coming to turns to loving yourself and being enough for yourself.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for a copy for an honest review.
This book does open up unconventionally right after the character is getting an abortion with her husband's baby. That was a little bit unsettling to me and I wish it would have started out with the proposal and getting married leading up to the abortion not starting with that and then going back in time but that is just me. I understand why she felt that was the best decision for her and I am so happy that she had the support system that she did. I did enjoy the realness and rawness with this storyline.
Now to the lighthearted portion of the book is when Zoe decides that its time to start dating again and signs up on an online dating app. (Been there done that) This is SO relatable. I feel like every date she went on was my dating life after my divorce. This made is funnier too because I was like yep dated that guy, and that one, and that one. Dating in your 30's is HARD and the author nailed it.
I liked the authors choice of ending for Zoe. It is unconventional and felt appropriate in that moment of her life.. This is not a book about romance but more of a self discovery and coming to turns to loving yourself and being enough for yourself.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for a copy for an honest review.
July 28, 2022
Solid 5 stars! I really liked Zoe and her journey into her early 30s. I had so many laugh out loud moments when reading this book; always a plus! I was initially thrown by the timeline as I thought it took place around 2022, but it's based in 2007-2008.
I enjoyed how the book read like a memoir. The details and the narrator together make it easy to envision what Zoe was experiencing and it was all believable (even the MIL situations). I did not care for the U2 letters as I despise them, aside to Ross and Rachel's song, but I chose to let it go as I respect that we all have different tastes.
Cady Zuckerman definitely brought this book to life. My only complaint is that the female characters did sound similar and were hard to differentiate, even within the same conversation.
I am pro-choice and believe we should all have autonomy over our individual bodies. I did find myself questioning that stance when reading this book because she wanted the baby so badly but didn't want to be tied to Rob for the entirety of the child's life; however, how he was acting made it seem like he'd have no problem relinquishing his rights. I have not/will not change my stance and, while it took me a minute to get there, I respect Zoe's choice. Moreover, I actually appreciate that this scenario made me think critically of how I feel and why so I could work through it.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media for providing me with an ARC.
I enjoyed how the book read like a memoir. The details and the narrator together make it easy to envision what Zoe was experiencing and it was all believable (even the MIL situations). I did not care for the U2 letters as I despise them, aside to Ross and Rachel's song, but I chose to let it go as I respect that we all have different tastes.
Cady Zuckerman definitely brought this book to life. My only complaint is that the female characters did sound similar and were hard to differentiate, even within the same conversation.
I am pro-choice and believe we should all have autonomy over our individual bodies. I did find myself questioning that stance when reading this book because she wanted the baby so badly but didn't want to be tied to Rob for the entirety of the child's life; however, how he was acting made it seem like he'd have no problem relinquishing his rights. I have not/will not change my stance and, while it took me a minute to get there, I respect Zoe's choice. Moreover, I actually appreciate that this scenario made me think critically of how I feel and why so I could work through it.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media for providing me with an ARC.
July 29, 2022
*Received ALC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
WOW. This book made me super uncomfortable - and I absolutely loved it! Some of the horrors Zoe goes through made me cringe and also laugh out loud. I think it was in one of the very first chapters where Ms. Wolf detailed the abortion/period blood gushing that I knew I was going to be in for a wild ride.
I loved that we got a little backstory on Zoe's relationship with Rob and his family. Poor Zoe should have known her marriage was doomed the second her crazy Mother In Law scheduled a literal FUNERAL the same day as her wedding. Ooof.
Zoe's adventures in online dating were completely realistic and relatable. I was constantly comparing things she went through with things I happened to go through myself years ago. I can honestly say I DO NOT miss those days, especially after reading this - haha.
My heart broke for her during certain moments. I also want to give major kudos to Ms. Wolf for showing the entire thought/feeling process leading up to, during, and after Zoe having her abortion. In this day and age, especially for those of us in the US, that was needed.
This is not my typical read but I took a chance and I absolutely loved it. Give this one a chance, it will give you ALL the feelings.
WOW. This book made me super uncomfortable - and I absolutely loved it! Some of the horrors Zoe goes through made me cringe and also laugh out loud. I think it was in one of the very first chapters where Ms. Wolf detailed the abortion/period blood gushing that I knew I was going to be in for a wild ride.
I loved that we got a little backstory on Zoe's relationship with Rob and his family. Poor Zoe should have known her marriage was doomed the second her crazy Mother In Law scheduled a literal FUNERAL the same day as her wedding. Ooof.
Zoe's adventures in online dating were completely realistic and relatable. I was constantly comparing things she went through with things I happened to go through myself years ago. I can honestly say I DO NOT miss those days, especially after reading this - haha.
My heart broke for her during certain moments. I also want to give major kudos to Ms. Wolf for showing the entire thought/feeling process leading up to, during, and after Zoe having her abortion. In this day and age, especially for those of us in the US, that was needed.
This is not my typical read but I took a chance and I absolutely loved it. Give this one a chance, it will give you ALL the feelings.
July 1, 2022
“My Thirty-First Year (and other Calamaties)” was my introduction to Emily Wolf, a writer who shows plenty of potential.
The novel opens with Chicago-native Zoe getting an abortion because her Prince Charming turned out to be worse than a frog. Althought she believed she was going to spend her life with her husband (who is a total jerk and a Mama’s boy), despite planning to have a child together, he decides he doesn’t want the child or Zoe.
Ironically, SCOTUS announced the reversal of Roe v. Wade just as I started reading this book. I am not about to get political, but Zoe made the choice to terminate her pregnancy and the novel follows her trying to build a life without that baby. The reader follows Zoe on this journey as she goes into therapy, toils away at a law firm where her direct supervisor is a total douche, and navigates a return to dating. What keeps Zoe going is the fantastic support of her friends and family.
I really liked this novel because I identified with finding yourself and switching life paths in one’s early thirties. The writing was light-hearted and funny in places. Zoe has a lot of friends and I sometimes had difficulty telling the different characters apart, but I really was rooting for Zoe. Some of the interesting touches Emily Wolf added were Zoe’s letters to the band U2 (which she writes in journal form) and the footnotes (which I found a little annoying, only because I kept having to scroll back and forth on my ereader). Overall, I found Zoe’s plight somewhat relatable and am curious to see what this author will produce next.
Three and a half stars.
Thanks go to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to give an early read.
The novel opens with Chicago-native Zoe getting an abortion because her Prince Charming turned out to be worse than a frog. Althought she believed she was going to spend her life with her husband (who is a total jerk and a Mama’s boy), despite planning to have a child together, he decides he doesn’t want the child or Zoe.
Ironically, SCOTUS announced the reversal of Roe v. Wade just as I started reading this book. I am not about to get political, but Zoe made the choice to terminate her pregnancy and the novel follows her trying to build a life without that baby. The reader follows Zoe on this journey as she goes into therapy, toils away at a law firm where her direct supervisor is a total douche, and navigates a return to dating. What keeps Zoe going is the fantastic support of her friends and family.
I really liked this novel because I identified with finding yourself and switching life paths in one’s early thirties. The writing was light-hearted and funny in places. Zoe has a lot of friends and I sometimes had difficulty telling the different characters apart, but I really was rooting for Zoe. Some of the interesting touches Emily Wolf added were Zoe’s letters to the band U2 (which she writes in journal form) and the footnotes (which I found a little annoying, only because I kept having to scroll back and forth on my ereader). Overall, I found Zoe’s plight somewhat relatable and am curious to see what this author will produce next.
Three and a half stars.
Thanks go to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to give an early read.
July 8, 2022
How many women are raised to believe that everyone else’s needs come before their own? I know I can raise my hand and say yes to that. So can heroine Zoe Greene, though Rob’s mother seems to have skipped that particular burden. Come to think of it, so did my first mother-in-law. Hmm.
With humor and irony, overachiever Zoe navigates the transition from single to married to single again. Contemporary as this story is, the recent SCOTUS decision on Roe v. Wade casts a whole new light on Zoe’s abortion, which she got in what now seem like simpler days. This is the bittersweet story of one woman’s coming of age in an increasingly complicated society.
With humor and irony, overachiever Zoe navigates the transition from single to married to single again. Contemporary as this story is, the recent SCOTUS decision on Roe v. Wade casts a whole new light on Zoe’s abortion, which she got in what now seem like simpler days. This is the bittersweet story of one woman’s coming of age in an increasingly complicated society.
August 16, 2022
With her 30th birthday approaching, Zoe has graduated from Yale, practising law, and married to her high school sweetheart. When they decide to have a baby, Zoe feels like everything has gone according to plan. Instead, Zoe ends up having to start over with the help of her therapist, loved ones, and a string of shitty dating app matches.
You may have surmised from my 1 star rating that this book was not for me, to say the least.
The first couple of chapters seemed like they may have had potential, however I quickly lost interest. There was very little character development, storylines that didn’t seem to serve a purpose, and I didn’t understand the choice to present Zoe’s diary entries as letters to the band U2. It also read like a YA novel, which was really bizarre for a story about a 30 year old woman going through quite a major adult crisis.
Ultimately though, my biggest issue was the consistent anti-abortion rhetoric threaded throughout, which is probably partly on me for not stopping when it first appeared on page 7. This book treats a very important topic in a careless and insensitive way, such as the suggestion that abortion is “killing” babies, or that abortion is more / less acceptable if the fetus is unhealthy / healthy. It’s a no from me, thank you.
Thank you to NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for a review.
You may have surmised from my 1 star rating that this book was not for me, to say the least.
The first couple of chapters seemed like they may have had potential, however I quickly lost interest. There was very little character development, storylines that didn’t seem to serve a purpose, and I didn’t understand the choice to present Zoe’s diary entries as letters to the band U2. It also read like a YA novel, which was really bizarre for a story about a 30 year old woman going through quite a major adult crisis.
Ultimately though, my biggest issue was the consistent anti-abortion rhetoric threaded throughout, which is probably partly on me for not stopping when it first appeared on page 7. This book treats a very important topic in a careless and insensitive way, such as the suggestion that abortion is “killing” babies, or that abortion is more / less acceptable if the fetus is unhealthy / healthy. It’s a no from me, thank you.
Thank you to NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for a review.
August 6, 2022
Lots of books try to do the 30-something newly-single woman on the path to self discovery thing, but not in a particularly raw and honest way. If you’ve done that journey, you know it’s way less precious that it’s usually written to be. This book doesn’t do that. It’s raw and candid. I guffawed and was horrified along with Zoe as she navigates her way out of the small and inauthentic box she was put in by her manipulative (maybe certifiably narcissistic?) husband. Relationships are messy, weird and awkward, and so are humans. This first-time author doesn’t shy away from that reality and the result is an honest and compelling narrative that I actually recognize as real.
August 27, 2022
A hilarious book that, at the beginning, reads like a memoir that reads like a novel (my two favorite genres). The heartbreak of Zoe's abortion (why does anyone think that is a decision made lightly?) is timely. Whoever heard of a novel with footnotes? They add to the laughing out loud; I couldn't wait for the next one. Emily Wolf's humor and writing style kept me laughing all the way through, even though I am well beyond Zoe's age and never had her experiences (though I did spend a month on Match). I got weary waiting for Zoe to get to where she got at the end (it is a little on the long side). I'm glad she finally did!
July 3, 2022
I think this book could be called timely or politically disastrous. It begins with Zoe’s abortion, at the end of an unhappy marriage. Sure, abortion is certainly a most important topic, but rather than pointing towards choice, it points to so many arguments that anti-abortion activists use.
So, honestly, I found this book thought provoking, but definitely making me question some of my own beliefs. I didn’t especially like her writing style with her fan letters used as “journal” entries. I really can’t recommend this for a fun or inspirational read. Rather, it is painful and treats a very serious issue in a very thoughtless way.
Thank you Netgalley for sending me this ARC in return for an honest review.
So, honestly, I found this book thought provoking, but definitely making me question some of my own beliefs. I didn’t especially like her writing style with her fan letters used as “journal” entries. I really can’t recommend this for a fun or inspirational read. Rather, it is painful and treats a very serious issue in a very thoughtless way.
Thank you Netgalley for sending me this ARC in return for an honest review.
August 26, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley I was able to enjoy listening to this wonderful story. The narration was very easy to listen to. I can actually imagine it to be a true story. It's not my normal "go to" genre, but I'm certainly glad I took a chance on it.
September 7, 2023
Im nosy so i loved hearing about her terrible dating life but otherwise this was millennial cheese and i simply couldnt relate
August 7, 2022
Welcome to Zoe’s world as she journeys through her early 30’s. Readers will enjoy many laugh-out-loud moments, charming interactions, and a great cast of characters that help get Zoe through the many curve balls life throughs at her. Wolfs writing is detailed and emotional putting readers right in the thick of things. While some readers may not love the “U2 Letters” I found them endearing, a fun way to communicate the protagonists thoughts and feelings.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun read anchored in a bit of heartache. Trigger warnings include extreme family pressure and abortion/loss of child 💔
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5 stars for this nostalgic and endearing look at life in your 30’s
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun read anchored in a bit of heartache. Trigger warnings include extreme family pressure and abortion/loss of child 💔
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5 stars for this nostalgic and endearing look at life in your 30’s
October 12, 2023
4.5 rounded up. As someone who is nearly thirty and single, I found this book to be quite relatable and hilarious. The second half in particular had me laughing out loud. Lots of positive adult friendships & miserable (yet hopeful) dates.
August 2, 2022
Book: ⭐⭐⭐⭐🌑 (3.5)
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
[blurb] On her 30th birthday, Yale-educated Zoe Greene was supposed to be married to her high-school sweetheart, pregnant with their first baby, and practicing law in Chicago. Instead, she's planning an abortion and filing for divorce.
[Trigger Warnings] abortion & emotional abuse
[Review] This book does not come with a trigger warning but does open with Zoe getting an abortion, so please be gentle with your self if this is a difficult topic.
I wanted to like this book so much more than I did. I liked the beginning and the ending, but the middle part lost me. There was so much back and forth. I felt myself zoning out and having to go back and rewind, which never happens to me.
However. I did really relate to Zoe in the instance of “putting them first” and making excuses for your first real love. I can't imagine the shit show of my life if I had married my “first love”.
I also really loved the religious elements of this book. I love hearing about how different religions handle different things. I did find it funny that she wrote in her journal to U2, I was never a fan. But I get being so obsessed with a band, you would do this. That was funny.
The narration on this book was spectacular though, you could feel Zoes pain and the angst going thru all of these big life events
Thank you Netgalley & Dreamscape Media for the ARC audiobook
Thank you Emily Wolf for this book
Thank you Cady Zuckerman for the wonderful narration
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
[blurb] On her 30th birthday, Yale-educated Zoe Greene was supposed to be married to her high-school sweetheart, pregnant with their first baby, and practicing law in Chicago. Instead, she's planning an abortion and filing for divorce.
[Trigger Warnings] abortion & emotional abuse
[Review] This book does not come with a trigger warning but does open with Zoe getting an abortion, so please be gentle with your self if this is a difficult topic.
I wanted to like this book so much more than I did. I liked the beginning and the ending, but the middle part lost me. There was so much back and forth. I felt myself zoning out and having to go back and rewind, which never happens to me.
However. I did really relate to Zoe in the instance of “putting them first” and making excuses for your first real love. I can't imagine the shit show of my life if I had married my “first love”.
I also really loved the religious elements of this book. I love hearing about how different religions handle different things. I did find it funny that she wrote in her journal to U2, I was never a fan. But I get being so obsessed with a band, you would do this. That was funny.
The narration on this book was spectacular though, you could feel Zoes pain and the angst going thru all of these big life events
Thank you Netgalley & Dreamscape Media for the ARC audiobook
Thank you Emily Wolf for this book
Thank you Cady Zuckerman for the wonderful narration
August 9, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and She Writes Press for the advanced reader copy.
This week’s headline? I still haven’t found what I’m looking for.
Why this book? We need more “coming of age” stories about people in their thirties.
Which book format? ARC
Primary reading environment? Getting a pedicure
Any preconceived notions? Hoping this will be an interesting take on a woman in her thirties.
Identify most with? Penelope?
Three little words? “I felt empowered.”
Goes well with? The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), Hecky’s wings
Recommend this to? People who like reading other people’s diary entries.
Other cultural accompaniments: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractio...
Grade: 1.75/5
I leave you with this: “The power and responsibility that came with being a woman, and profound respect for all that women sustain, literally washed over me.”
📚📚📚
Zoe Greene wants to be married, have a baby, and be a Chicago attorney, but plans have changed when her husband decides he doesn’t want to be a husband or a dad.
I didn’t really care for this one. I didn’t care for the casual tone of the writing. I didn’t like the footnotes further explaining things. I’m finding I don’t care for books about women’s lives changing only because a man made the first decision. I didn’t like that it read like a YA novel. Oh, and U2 isn’t that great. Sorry.
My Thirty-First Year is available now.
tw: abortion, emotional abuse and manipulation
This week’s headline? I still haven’t found what I’m looking for.
Why this book? We need more “coming of age” stories about people in their thirties.
Which book format? ARC
Primary reading environment? Getting a pedicure
Any preconceived notions? Hoping this will be an interesting take on a woman in her thirties.
Identify most with? Penelope?
Three little words? “I felt empowered.”
Goes well with? The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), Hecky’s wings
Recommend this to? People who like reading other people’s diary entries.
Other cultural accompaniments: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractio...
Grade: 1.75/5
I leave you with this: “The power and responsibility that came with being a woman, and profound respect for all that women sustain, literally washed over me.”
📚📚📚
Zoe Greene wants to be married, have a baby, and be a Chicago attorney, but plans have changed when her husband decides he doesn’t want to be a husband or a dad.
I didn’t really care for this one. I didn’t care for the casual tone of the writing. I didn’t like the footnotes further explaining things. I’m finding I don’t care for books about women’s lives changing only because a man made the first decision. I didn’t like that it read like a YA novel. Oh, and U2 isn’t that great. Sorry.
My Thirty-First Year is available now.
tw: abortion, emotional abuse and manipulation
August 30, 2022
My Thirty-First Year (and other calamities) was an amazing, heartwarming, soul-searching, heartbreaking, cringy, funny, and meaningful chronicle of Zoe’s life.
As a liberal Jewish feminist who met her now-husband on jDate (a few years prior to this book’s setting, but not too many), who’s also a lawyer, had an abortion, and went on TOO MANY bad first dates…this book was an absolute home run for me. I couldn’t love it more. I’ve never (NEVER!) felt so seen or represented in literature in my life. (Though to be fair, my husband is the only U2 fan in our house!)
Everything in this book tracks like real life as fiction. The unpleasant, the meaningful, the heartbreaking, the disastrous…it was all well-written and came alive in the pages. I didn’t really get the letters to U2, but I’ve also never been one to keep a journal or diary. I assume there’s a correlation. I loved Zoe’s group of friends, and their eternal support of her as she lived her roller coaster of a life the best she could. I loved the portrayal of peripheral characters outside of the primary friend group (especially her boss!) because of how quirky and nuanced they were. And more than anything, I loved her journey and where she ended up. (And I was cheering out loud when she walked out on the date where the guy had no idea who Obama or McCain were!)
Read if you like: strong feminist leads, women’s rights, standing up for what matters, democracy, feminism, Roe, strong friendships, finding yourself, and a lot of awkward dating situations.
Thank you to the author for a gifted copy! I’m honored to have been able to read this.
As a liberal Jewish feminist who met her now-husband on jDate (a few years prior to this book’s setting, but not too many), who’s also a lawyer, had an abortion, and went on TOO MANY bad first dates…this book was an absolute home run for me. I couldn’t love it more. I’ve never (NEVER!) felt so seen or represented in literature in my life. (Though to be fair, my husband is the only U2 fan in our house!)
Everything in this book tracks like real life as fiction. The unpleasant, the meaningful, the heartbreaking, the disastrous…it was all well-written and came alive in the pages. I didn’t really get the letters to U2, but I’ve also never been one to keep a journal or diary. I assume there’s a correlation. I loved Zoe’s group of friends, and their eternal support of her as she lived her roller coaster of a life the best she could. I loved the portrayal of peripheral characters outside of the primary friend group (especially her boss!) because of how quirky and nuanced they were. And more than anything, I loved her journey and where she ended up. (And I was cheering out loud when she walked out on the date where the guy had no idea who Obama or McCain were!)
Read if you like: strong feminist leads, women’s rights, standing up for what matters, democracy, feminism, Roe, strong friendships, finding yourself, and a lot of awkward dating situations.
Thank you to the author for a gifted copy! I’m honored to have been able to read this.
July 29, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and She Writes Press / Dreamscape Media for advanced access to the audiobook of My Thirty-First Year (And Other Calamities) by Emily Wolf in exchange for an honest review.
CW: abortion, pregnancy, toxic relationships, in-law relationships, emotional abuse, diffuse boundaries, see full list on StoryGraph
Zoe's 30s are off to a rough start. She is recently divorced from her high school sweetheart, and just had an abortion because, despite saying he wanted a baby, her now-ex-husband has changed his mind. Rife with familial conflict and the pressures of womanhood, My Thirty-First Year (And Other Calamities) addresses the need to put your oxygen mask on yourself before helping others.
I'm sorry y'all. I had to DNF this at 26%. I was really liking it at first. It has a My Big Fat Greek Wedding meets How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days vibes, which I thought was a great set up. And it was not what I was expecting! I guess I didn't read the description of this book too closely, because going in, I thought it was going to be a memoir. Unfortunately, the subject matter hit a little too close and cringey for me and I had to stop. Though Zoe's voice as a character was so achingly familiar about how it feels to be a woman who often puts others before herself, I had little reason to root for any of these characters, and I just felt so frustrated with Zoe's choice to stay with Rob time and time again, especially after he continued to make his mother a priority over his wife after their marriage. I liked the premise and the exposition, and I think this book likely has a really important message for a lot of women to hear, I just couldn't make myself push through it.
CW: abortion, pregnancy, toxic relationships, in-law relationships, emotional abuse, diffuse boundaries, see full list on StoryGraph
Zoe's 30s are off to a rough start. She is recently divorced from her high school sweetheart, and just had an abortion because, despite saying he wanted a baby, her now-ex-husband has changed his mind. Rife with familial conflict and the pressures of womanhood, My Thirty-First Year (And Other Calamities) addresses the need to put your oxygen mask on yourself before helping others.
I'm sorry y'all. I had to DNF this at 26%. I was really liking it at first. It has a My Big Fat Greek Wedding meets How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days vibes, which I thought was a great set up. And it was not what I was expecting! I guess I didn't read the description of this book too closely, because going in, I thought it was going to be a memoir. Unfortunately, the subject matter hit a little too close and cringey for me and I had to stop. Though Zoe's voice as a character was so achingly familiar about how it feels to be a woman who often puts others before herself, I had little reason to root for any of these characters, and I just felt so frustrated with Zoe's choice to stay with Rob time and time again, especially after he continued to make his mother a priority over his wife after their marriage. I liked the premise and the exposition, and I think this book likely has a really important message for a lot of women to hear, I just couldn't make myself push through it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2022
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley, She Writes Press, and Emily Wolf for the advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Zoe Greene is turning 30 amidst an upheaval in her life, including a separation, an abortion, and uncertainty of how to move forward.
The topic of abortion, and the honesty with which the narrator shares her story, is very timely to the current political climate. I felt very empathetic toward Zoe in the situation she ended up in, and the emotions and feelings she had over the procedure felt real and raw. I applaud the author for attacking this subject matter, and showing an example of why a woman’s choice can mean so much. The political aspect or any questioning of the decision was never brought up, it was just what made sense for her to do.
There were a few parts of the writing that I didn’t really care for. I wish that she had talked about her love for U2 before we got the first journal entry. I also didn’t like the footnote-style writing. It felt like these notes could’ve easily been included in the body, OR there should’ve been more of them. The infrequency of use just felt strange and unnecessary.
Overall, I really liked the story, and I liked Zoe’s growth as the book went on, particularly in sessions with her therapist. I liked the writer’s style, and would be interested in checking out any future books she puts out, too!
Thank you to NetGalley, She Writes Press, and Emily Wolf for the advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Zoe Greene is turning 30 amidst an upheaval in her life, including a separation, an abortion, and uncertainty of how to move forward.
The topic of abortion, and the honesty with which the narrator shares her story, is very timely to the current political climate. I felt very empathetic toward Zoe in the situation she ended up in, and the emotions and feelings she had over the procedure felt real and raw. I applaud the author for attacking this subject matter, and showing an example of why a woman’s choice can mean so much. The political aspect or any questioning of the decision was never brought up, it was just what made sense for her to do.
There were a few parts of the writing that I didn’t really care for. I wish that she had talked about her love for U2 before we got the first journal entry. I also didn’t like the footnote-style writing. It felt like these notes could’ve easily been included in the body, OR there should’ve been more of them. The infrequency of use just felt strange and unnecessary.
Overall, I really liked the story, and I liked Zoe’s growth as the book went on, particularly in sessions with her therapist. I liked the writer’s style, and would be interested in checking out any future books she puts out, too!
July 25, 2022
My Thirty-first Year (and other Calamities) is the debut novel by Emily Wolf. Overall I thought that this book was okay.
The story had great promise following the life of Zoe Greene. It starts out with Zoe getting an abortion because her marriage is over. From there we follow her through coping with the abortion of a baby she wanted, her separation and divorce, then her entering the dating world. Through this all, Zoe had support from her family and friends. The characters were well written and relatable. There were several funny moments that made me laugh out loud.
There were a few things that kept me from loving the book. I couldn't quite connect with the journal entries throughout the book. Zoe writes to her favorite band U2 in journal form. Also I found that the footnotes were quite annoying. I believe that they could have easily been put into the body of the story instead of me having to scroll up and down on my eReader to read them. The ending of the book left me wanting more (maybe that was intentional for a sequel 🤔).
All this being said, I did enjoy the writing and would most likely read this author's future books.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The story had great promise following the life of Zoe Greene. It starts out with Zoe getting an abortion because her marriage is over. From there we follow her through coping with the abortion of a baby she wanted, her separation and divorce, then her entering the dating world. Through this all, Zoe had support from her family and friends. The characters were well written and relatable. There were several funny moments that made me laugh out loud.
There were a few things that kept me from loving the book. I couldn't quite connect with the journal entries throughout the book. Zoe writes to her favorite band U2 in journal form. Also I found that the footnotes were quite annoying. I believe that they could have easily been put into the body of the story instead of me having to scroll up and down on my eReader to read them. The ending of the book left me wanting more (maybe that was intentional for a sequel 🤔).
All this being said, I did enjoy the writing and would most likely read this author's future books.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
July 28, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to read an ARC of "My Thirty First Year and Other Calamities" by Emily Wolf. This novel is scheduled to release on August 2nd, 2022!
This book centers around Zoe, who is getting an abortion after her boyfriend has decided that he doesn't want to have a child with her. She has moved back in with her parents and is waiting for him to get his things out of the apartment so she can go back home. Afterward, the rest of the story focuses on her year of healing/nursing her broken heart.
Overall, I rated this book a 3.5/5 stars!
I did enjoy the overall plotline and flow of the story. However, I was not a fan of Zoe and Rob as characters. Though they were both extremely well-written, I also wanted to smack them both across the face. I didn't like how Rob never stood up for Zoe whenever his mother was giving her a hard time. Everything was always about him and he never stopped to consider her feelings about things. I also didn't like the concept of how Zoe didn't feel that she could have a child and be a single mother, even without him. Clearly, her parents were serving as an excellent support system for her. Zoe put up with so much nonsense from Rob and I wouldn't have personally stood for his bullshit for as long as she did.
This book centers around Zoe, who is getting an abortion after her boyfriend has decided that he doesn't want to have a child with her. She has moved back in with her parents and is waiting for him to get his things out of the apartment so she can go back home. Afterward, the rest of the story focuses on her year of healing/nursing her broken heart.
Overall, I rated this book a 3.5/5 stars!
I did enjoy the overall plotline and flow of the story. However, I was not a fan of Zoe and Rob as characters. Though they were both extremely well-written, I also wanted to smack them both across the face. I didn't like how Rob never stood up for Zoe whenever his mother was giving her a hard time. Everything was always about him and he never stopped to consider her feelings about things. I also didn't like the concept of how Zoe didn't feel that she could have a child and be a single mother, even without him. Clearly, her parents were serving as an excellent support system for her. Zoe put up with so much nonsense from Rob and I wouldn't have personally stood for his bullshit for as long as she did.
August 17, 2022
I loved this book. Zoey is brave, funny, and flawed, but that makes me love her so much! Its really good that this is a work of fiction, because Rob would need to watch out if he was a real person. I have never read a book that so openly discussed a woman's right to her own body autonomy, how while it was the very best choice she could have made in that moment, but also it hurt and she suffered with aftermath of that choice. also how she used her religion to heal and move forward with her life. What an incredible storyline and so timely in the midst of the rollback of women's rights. Zoey realizing that she has spent the entirety of her relationship coddling Rob. When he blows up their marriage and he plans for the future, she is left devastated. With the help of an incredible group of friends and her family she slowly picks up the pieces and struggles through the new world of divorce dating. After many, many many lows she walks away not with a man, but with a confidence in herself and the path that she will forge for the life she really wants to live and that will bring her happiness. I would love to know what happens to Zoey in he 32nd year and beyond. This was a great story!
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June 20, 2022I wanted to like this book -- the premise had so much promise and is very relatable. I too am an attorney on the cusp of her 30th birthday struggling with life.
But what I couldn't get over is that the subject matter of the book and tone of the writing just weren't a good match. This book reads like a Young Adult novel, but has all the subject matter heft of a book for its target audience (30-something women). I also did not understand the point of the footnotes. They reminded me of the footnotes in Dr. Strange and Mr. Norrell, but didn't work in the narrative structure here. In the end this book just was not a good fit for me.
That being said, I would try what Ms. Wolf has to write next. This debut seemed to me too much like a debut. I think Ms. Wolf has real promise as a novelist and I expect good things from her in the future!
Thank you @netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
But what I couldn't get over is that the subject matter of the book and tone of the writing just weren't a good match. This book reads like a Young Adult novel, but has all the subject matter heft of a book for its target audience (30-something women). I also did not understand the point of the footnotes. They reminded me of the footnotes in Dr. Strange and Mr. Norrell, but didn't work in the narrative structure here. In the end this book just was not a good fit for me.
That being said, I would try what Ms. Wolf has to write next. This debut seemed to me too much like a debut. I think Ms. Wolf has real promise as a novelist and I expect good things from her in the future!
Thank you @netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2022
My Thirty-First Year (and other calamities) is the debut novel from Emily Wolf.
I found the book to be just okay. The writing was fine, but didn't really spark for me.
There were a couple of things that I found distracting. I'm not a big U2 fan and the letters/journal entries throughout felt like they diverted from the story. Just me, but maybe starting the chapter with the entries would have been better or felt less repetitious.
Also, Zoe uses a lot of nicknames for people, switching back and forth, so that it became hard to keep track of who was who.
Having said that, it was interesting to read about Zoe's progress from the abortion and divorce in the first chapter to the ending. The ending was rather open ended, but not necessarily unsatisfying.
Thank you to She Writes Press and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I found the book to be just okay. The writing was fine, but didn't really spark for me.
There were a couple of things that I found distracting. I'm not a big U2 fan and the letters/journal entries throughout felt like they diverted from the story. Just me, but maybe starting the chapter with the entries would have been better or felt less repetitious.
Also, Zoe uses a lot of nicknames for people, switching back and forth, so that it became hard to keep track of who was who.
Having said that, it was interesting to read about Zoe's progress from the abortion and divorce in the first chapter to the ending. The ending was rather open ended, but not necessarily unsatisfying.
Thank you to She Writes Press and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2022
3.5 stars!
Zoe is the worst in some of the best and most relatable of ways. Her life is horrifying and hilarious, maddening and mortifying, humorous and all happening to her and at her and around her in all of the ways that made me double check that this was a fictional character and not biographical.
Written with cringe-worthy authenticity Zoe’s reality is at once both depressing and hopeful. So many times I saw a person I could simultaneously be friends with or also potentially be.
This book is all the things it promises to be and more, and I enjoyed every cringe filled “Why though?” moment just as much as I laughed at each calamitous event as they arose.
Zoe is the worst in some of the best and most relatable of ways. Her life is horrifying and hilarious, maddening and mortifying, humorous and all happening to her and at her and around her in all of the ways that made me double check that this was a fictional character and not biographical.
Written with cringe-worthy authenticity Zoe’s reality is at once both depressing and hopeful. So many times I saw a person I could simultaneously be friends with or also potentially be.
This book is all the things it promises to be and more, and I enjoyed every cringe filled “Why though?” moment just as much as I laughed at each calamitous event as they arose.
November 28, 2024
I absolutely loved Emily Wolf's book! She tackles the taboo topic of abortion with depth, honesty, grace, and healing, but that's just one aspect of this rich story. Zoe Greene’s journey through marriage, divorce, and dating is messy, honest, and filled with growth, offering real insight along the way. Her relationships with family and friends are also beautifully portrayed, showing depth and personal growth. The writing is captivating, drawing you into Zoe's world—both inner and outer—in a way that's raw, vulnerable, and engaging. I devoured this book in a weekend! I highly recommend reading - its powerful themes and insights will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
August 2, 2022
Happy publishing day to this book!
I received a free audiobook copy from Netgalley and finished in the nick of time before publishing day.
This book was a lot of fun. As someone who thoroughly enjoys hearing about other people's dating lives, I enjoyed listening to this and often felt as though I was being confided in. I do have to dock some points from this due to the oddly anticlimactic ending in the last 5% of the book and the diary entries written to U2. Overall, I recommend this to folks like me who enjoy these kinds of stories.
Tw: abortion, sexism, & 2008 political discussion
I received a free audiobook copy from Netgalley and finished in the nick of time before publishing day.
This book was a lot of fun. As someone who thoroughly enjoys hearing about other people's dating lives, I enjoyed listening to this and often felt as though I was being confided in. I do have to dock some points from this due to the oddly anticlimactic ending in the last 5% of the book and the diary entries written to U2. Overall, I recommend this to folks like me who enjoy these kinds of stories.
Tw: abortion, sexism, & 2008 political discussion
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2022
This opens with a really emotional scene, and before you know it, you've slipped into Zoe's life. There are some relatable moments, some heartbreaking ones, and some that will give you a warm and fuzzy feeling. I really felt like I was quietly watching someone's life unfold before me. There's some dark humor sprinkled in, which I can really appreciate, as it's how I deal with unexpected curveballs in my own life. If you enjoy women's fiction and emotional journeys through the twists and turns of life, you're going to fall in love with this book.
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